Yes, but I’d think these people don’t actually live in the apartment? Maybe they do but that doesn’t seem very cost effective. Not any different than when you used to go through rental agencies to rent beach houses.

I’ve rented properties twice before, but not through this site.

How is my facebook, that matches my credit card, that matches my billing address not enough? Sorry but there is no reason for a commercial site to verify identify via SSN.

Have you contacted their customer service? I’ve got 2 upcoming Airbnb rentals overseas and was never asked for that much info, hell I didn’t even connect my facebook account for like 6 months. It’s not a requirement to use the site. Could it depend on the requirements of the person renting the apartment? Definitely talk to customer service. All I needed was my CC and an account.

@kmarie719: That’s odd. I just booked a place through airbnb just 2 days ago. I had to set up an account and there was an option to link my facebook but it NEVER required a 2 part verification where I needed to send photo ID and my SSN. It just wanted my name, address, phone, and CC number. That’s it.

I’ll have to call and check…I even have a little countdown of time left to verify my identity. The host claims it is the process of the site…….but apparently not if no one else had to? (also this place has several good reviews, I’m surprised so many people do this…)

I believe the owner of the property has the option to increase security before renting out their apartment. You don’t need to enter so much personal information for all properties, but its understandable why they would want you to confirm your identity.

An apartment owner who used AirBnB had a horrible experience a couple years ago which resulted in the company giving the option for stricter screening. I know it seems like they’re asking a lot, but it’s most likely to protect the owner.

Ugh, I don’t like that. There are some things where they ask for my SSN and I always ask “um… why?”. There are only a few places that need my SSN, my employer and my accountant being two of them. I don’t see why they would need it, but it looks like PPs might know why.

That would unsettle me too though, that’s for sure! They would need a good reason for needing my SSN, that’s for sure!

Your ID as a verification is totally understandable. It’s similar to when you book a hotel room; you show them your ID when you check in. The only difference is this is a private party’s property, so obviously they would want to make sure all the information matched up in case something goes wrong.